Mumbai, February 6th, 2024: The curtains have drawn on the grand spectacle that was the Bharat Rang Mahotsav (BRM) 2024, the world’s largest theatre festival, with a splendid closing ceremony held in Mumbai on February 6th, 2024. Spanning from February 1st to 21st, 2024, the festival graced 15 cities across the nation, showcasing an impressive array of over 150 performances. Amidst the captivating theatrical presentations, BRM 2024 also offered a plethora of workshops, discussions, and master classes, weaving a vibrant tapestry that celebrated both Indian and global theatre traditions.
The 25th anniversary edition of BRM held a special significance, commemorating a quarter-century of excellence in theatre. The festival served as a convergence point for theatre enthusiasts, artists, and scholars, contributing to the cultural richness and artistic exchange that have become synonymous with BRM over the years.
This year’s festival was meticulously crafted around the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Vande Bharangam,” emphasizing global unity among thespians and artists. By fostering social harmony, the festival created a sense of a shared world, bringing together diverse cultures through the powerful medium of the performing arts for a truly enriching experience.
Reflecting on the event, His Excellency Ramesh Bais, Governor of Maharashtra, expressed, “The Bharat Rang Mahotsav stood as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the transformative impact of the performing arts. In the symphony of cultures and traditions showcased at Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2024, the theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Vande Bharangam’ echoed as a powerful anthem of unity.”
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NSD Director Chittaranjan Tripathy echoed this sentiment, stating, “It was truly a momentous occasion that reflected our enduring commitment to artistic excellence and cultural diversity. Over the past quarter-century, this festival has served as a guiding light, illuminating the rich tapestry of global theatre traditions.”
In Mumbai, the cultural extravaganza unfolded over six exhilarating days, featuring a total of six captivating plays, each a masterpiece in its own right, spanning various genres and languages. From the compelling play ‘Tajmahal Ka Tender’ to the diverse array of productions like ‘GAJAB TICHI ADA,’ ‘BABUJI,’ ‘THE ZOO STORY,’ ‘TODI MILL FANTASY,’ and ‘SWAHA,’ audiences were treated to an unforgettable theatrical experience.
The 25th year of BRM brought together diverse theatrical voices in a celebration of the magic of theatre. Audiences were captivated by a wide range of theatrical forms, including international productions, folk and traditional plays, modern dramas, graduate showcases, and collegiate street plays. The festival unfolded in parallel venues across multiple cities, ensuring a nationwide celebration of the transformative power of theatre.
In an innovative move, this year NSD introduced Rang Haat, an annual initiative aimed at establishing Asia’s inaugural global theatre market and nurturing international collaborations in the theatrical domain. Rang Haat united theatre artists, programmers, patrons, and supporters, fostering the discovery of hidden talent and facilitating creative and financial partnerships.
The BRM extended beyond the stage, offering enriching experiences such as parallel exhibitions, director-audience dialogues, discussions, seminars, masterclasses, and vibrant marketplaces. Attendees immersed themselves in the diverse offerings, letting the spirit of theatre truly captivate them.
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As the curtains close on the 25th year of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, the echoes of unity, creativity, and cultural exchange continue to resonate, reaffirming the festival’s position as a beacon of artistic excellence and a celebration of the transformative power of theatre.